The conditioning method works on physical and mental health simultaneously
If you’re the type that doesn’t really like the gym, but you need to keep your body moving, train your mind and stretch, pilates is an exercise that could be right for you. “It is a method of physical and mental conditioning created by the German Joseph Pilates. The movements promote the acquisition of flexibility and strengthening of the body in an integrated and individualized way,” explains physiotherapist Jéssica de Cnop.
Benefits of the practice
In addition to offering a range of benefits for the bodybecause it improves joint mobility, breathing capacity and flexibility, pilates also helps to work the mind, fight anxiety, reduce stress and fatigue, define muscles and improve the quality of life.
According to Jessica de Cnop, the practice can also be indicated by a doctor, “to treat any condition, for example, for problems with the knee, spine, respiratory tract, in short, for numerous pathological or dysfunctional conditions”.
Who is Pilates for?
Pilates is suitable for everyone, even for children, depending on the modality and needs of each one. “It can be practiced by the most diverse groups, from athletes to sedentary, from the elderly to adolescents and from pregnant women to patients in rehabilitation,” says Rafael Vasconcelos, physiotherapist and pilates specialist.
Also according to the practitioner, pilates exercise may also be recommended for conditioning and injury prevention. “That is, anyone, between 12 and 100 years old, and at all levels of fitness, he can practice pilates, as long as individual differences and the principles of sports training are respected”, analyzes Rafael Vasconcelos.
What types of pilates?
Currently, the physical and mental conditioning method has several types, and each has its own particularities. Meet two of them:
Only Pilates (Mat Pilates)
It is practiced on the mat with the use of accessories such as balls, flex rings, tubes and elastic bands. Widely used in gyms, but one must always pay attention to the use of the principles of the method; otherwise, there will be only one class series of sit-ups.
studio pilates
Practiced in the devices developed by Joseph Pilates, such as the reformer, trapeze, barrel and chair. They are pieces of equipment that allow for a huge variety of exercises for different muscles and act as mechanisms to hinder or help the practitioner.
It is also a widely used practice for the rehabilitation of various joint disorders, such as back pain, knee pain and postural problems. It is very common for solo and studio pilates to be used in the same class.
Source: Terra
Ben Stock is a lifestyle journalist and author at Gossipify. He writes about topics such as health, wellness, travel, food and home decor. He provides practical advice and inspiration to improve well-being, keeps readers up to date with latest lifestyle news and trends, known for his engaging writing style, in-depth analysis and unique perspectives.
